Flanders weather forecast

Thursday, 1 April 2010

The prince owns everything in the kingdom, except the wind.Victor Hugo.

Cold weather and rain showers are forecast for Sunday’s Tour of Flanders. The top temperature on the day won’t go beyond 13°C and there will be showers all weekend to keep the cobbles dry. The wind could also play a part in the race, although the forecast is for no more than a stiff breeze, it should tire the legs more than it splits the bunch.

Conditions in Belgium this week have been foul. With strong winds, low temperatures and heavy rain you’d think twice about walking to a nearby café for a toasted waffle and hot chocolate, yet alone racing for five hours.

Pros riders might be princes of the cycling kingdom with heated thrones on the team bus and €10,000 bikes but once on the start line they must face the weather and battle like anyone else.